The races are fun competitions where sabotage, costume, and presentation, and other efforts are rewarded; some cities offer a "Best in Show" prize.
[1] Sabotage, such as tripping competitors, throwing marbles or large obstacles in their paths, and the spreading of misinformation such as false route information, were common in the early years.
[6][1] Racers wear "absurd"[6] costumes, including Spanish bullfighters and diaper-wearing astronauts,[7] and make stops at pubs and bars along the way.
Like a traditional race, teams compete to finish the course in as little time as possible, while making designated stops at checkpoints along the course.
In the spirit of radical inclusion, the Chiditarod organizers hand out a number of awards in a variety of categories giving participants the freedom to compete in the fields they are best suited for.